The Colombian international is said to be desperate to revive his career after a highly disappointing loan spell at Old Trafford, during which he managed to score only four goals in all competitions.

Falcao’s struggles for fitness and form have seen him leave United and return to parent club AS Monaco at the end of the season, but staying in Ligue 1 looks unlikely for the 29-year-old.

Chelsea are surprise suitors for the former Atletico Madrid star, who has previously been regarded as among the best players in the world, despite his struggles in English football so far.

According to Sky Sports, the Blues are one of many clubs chasing the forward, with manager Jose Mourinho perhaps keen to bring in a replacement for departing veteran Didier Drogba, with Loic Remy too injury prone to be a reliable backup for Diego Costa.